He said: "I was proud to call him a teammate. Obviously we shared that great day in 1966 but it was more than that. Even though I was on the pitch and have seen it many times since, I still don't know how he saved that header from Pele.

"Gordon will be deeply missed and our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time."

Image:He played every game of England's 1966 World Cup campaign

Banks made a total of 73 appearances for England during his career, and picked up six FIFA goalkeeper of the year awards.

Current England boss Gareth Southgate said on the Football Association website: "I am deeply saddened to hear of Gordon's passing.

"An all-time great for England, I was privileged enough to be in his company on a number of occasions.

"On behalf of everyone connected with England, I send my condolences to his wife Ursula, his family and friends."

Peter Shilton, who followed Banks as England number one, tweeted: "I'm devastated - today I've lost my hero our condolences to his family rip Gordon."

'True gentleman': Fans' tributes to Banks

At club level he managed two League Cup wins - the first with Leicester in 1964 and Stoke in 1972.

Banks lost the sight in his right eye after being injured in a road accident in 1972 and retired at the age of 34 as a result.